Learning to Fly – Tom Petty

Introduction

"Learning to Fly" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is an iconic song that embodies Petty’s signature sound: a mix of melodic storytelling, open chord progressions, and subtle yet effective lead guitar work. This lesson from LickLibrary.com teaches you how to play the song note-for-note while focusing on the key guitar techniques that make it stand out.

By mastering the techniques in this song, you will improve your ability to play smooth, dynamic chord transitions, develop better control over your strumming, and enhance your sense of timing and groove. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, these skills will carry over into many other songs in your repertoire. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitar Work in "Learning to Fly"

The song’s guitar parts feature a mix of open chord progressions, strumming patterns, and melodic embellishments that define Tom Petty’s accessible yet impactful guitar style. Mike Campbell, Petty’s long-time guitarist, plays a crucial role in shaping the song’s sound. His approach focuses on subtle textures rather than flashy solos, making this a perfect song to study for players who want to develop strong rhythm and feel.

About the Guitar Players

Tom Petty and Mike Campbell were the driving forces behind the song’s guitar arrangement. Campbell’s ability to craft memorable yet understated guitar parts has made him one of the most respected sidemen in rock music. His playing is a masterclass in restraint and taste, demonstrating how to make a song shine without overplaying. Learning his style will improve your ability to complement a song’s vocal melody and overall arrangement.

Guitar Techniques Covered in This Lesson

Open Chord Progressions

The foundation of "Learning to Fly" lies in its open chord progression. Mastering open chords will help you develop a fuller sound and improve your ability to transition smoothly between chords. Open chord progressions are fundamental to countless rock and folk songs, making this an essential skill for all guitarists.

Strumming Dynamics and Syncopation

The song's rhythm is driven by a steady strumming pattern with slight variations in dynamics. Learning how to control your strumming intensity will allow you to create more expressive performances. Syncopated rhythms add groove and feel to your playing, making it easier to lock in with a band or backing track.

Capo Use for Tonal Variation

"Learning to Fly" uses a capo to achieve its signature airy and open sound. Understanding how to use a capo effectively allows you to play in different keys while maintaining familiar chord shapes, expanding your ability to adapt songs to different vocal ranges.

Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

The song features subtle arpeggiated picking patterns that add texture to the guitar part. Learning arpeggios enhances finger coordination and picking accuracy, making your playing sound more refined and expressive.

Slides for Smooth Transitions

Mike Campbell often incorporates subtle slides into his playing to create smooth transitions between notes. Practicing slides improves finger control and helps add expressiveness to your lead lines and melodies.

Sustain and Note Control

One of the hallmarks of Campbell’s lead guitar style is his use of sustain to let notes ring out naturally. Understanding how to control sustain will help you shape your tone and create more emotive, vocal-like phrases in your solos.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Open Chord Progressions
• Capo
• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• Slides
• Sustain
• Syncopated Rhythms

By learning "Learning to Fly," you'll develop essential guitar techniques that will enhance your playing across multiple styles. Whether you're looking to improve your rhythm skills or refine your lead playing, this lesson will give you the tools to play more confidently and musically. Start learning today and bring the timeless sound of Tom Petty to your own guitar journey!